"Frankly, it’s a sad day to be an NFL fan. We saw again last night how imperative it is for professional games to have professional referees. Now the players, fans and coaches are dealing with the repercussions of the owners’ decision to lock out the NFLRA.

"Replacement referees have created a working environment for players that is less safe than it would be if the real referees were on the field. In 2011, the NFL tasked referees with assisting in spotting concussions, and yet now we have individuals on the field who can’t keep pace with the game, much less serve as that extra set of eyes. Players have spoken up, and the NFLPA has expressed its concern.

"The replacements’ performance in the Seahawks-Packers game was embarrassing and aggravating. However, we need to direct our frustrations at the proper source: the NFL teams’ owners who opted to use a lockout to try to break the referees’ union. Plain and simple."

About Lori Nickel

Lori Nickel covers the Packers, writes other sports features and also writes a weekly health and fitness column and blog, Chin Up.